Day 1: Muscat – Wadi Al Arbeieen (Off Road) – Wadi Tiwi – Sur – Ras Al Jinz Overnight At Ras Al Hadd (Approx 300 Km)
Meet your guide and begin your journey.
Your first adventure takes you off-road through Wadi Al Arbeieen, one of the most stunning wadis in Oman, located about 90 minutes from Muscat. Immerse yourself in the authentic natural soundtrack — the soothing sounds of flowing water, singing birds, and the wind weaving through narrow channels.
Continue to Wadi Tiwi, a lush valley visited by explorers for centuries. The famous traveler Ibn Battuta described its flowing streams, which even today course through the valley via carefully managed Aflaj (traditional Omani irrigation systems). Several small villages cling to the valley’s cliffs, where locals have cultivated thriving farms with date palms, papayas, bananas, and more.
Next, visit Sur, a peaceful seacoast town renowned for its traditional architecture and dhow shipbuilding heritage. Stroll through Sur’s labyrinth of streets lined with fine old houses featuring carved doors and arabesque windows. From the corniche, enjoy views of dhows moored in the harbor against the scenic backdrop of the Gulf of Oman.
In the evening, visit the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, globally famous as a key nesting site for the endangered green turtle (Chelonia mydas). This area hosts one of the most important turtle nesting concentrations along the Indian Ocean.
Overnight stay at Ras Al Hadd.
Day 2: Ras Al Hadd – Jalan Bani Bu Ali – Jalan Bani Bu Hassan – Wadi Bani Khalid – Wahiba Sands (Approx 250 Km)
After breakfast at your hotel in Ras Al Hadd, begin your journey inland.
Your first stop is Jalan Bani Bu Ali, a town steeped in history, renowned for its old watchtowers, ancient fort, and beautifully carved wooden doors adorning many of its buildings. The town is particularly lively on Friday mornings when the Souq opens, offering a vibrant mix of modern and traditional goods.
Continue to Jalan Bani Bu Hassan, once a rival settlement of Jalan Bani Bu Ali. Today, the two towns have blended seamlessly among vast date plantations. Be sure to visit the impressive Jalan Bani Bu Hassan Fort, one of the oldest and most significant forts in the Ash Sharqiyah region.
Next, visit the stunning Wadi Bani Khalid, one of Oman’s most beautiful wadis. Passing through a charming village surrounded by endless date palms, you will reach the magnificent pools of Wadi Bani Khalid. The deep, cool waters are crystal-clear — perfect for a refreshing swim or simply relaxing by the natural pools.
In the afternoon, continue towards the legendary Wahiba Sands. Stretching 200 km in length and 100 km in width down to the Arabian Sea, this vast desert has been home to Bedouin tribes for over 7,000 years. Experience an exhilarating drive over the dunes and watch an unforgettable sunset before arriving safely at your desert camp.
Overnight stay at Wahiba Sands.
Day 3: Wahiba Sands – Ibra – Bahla – Jabreen – Overnight At Nizwa (Approx 290)
Enjoy breakfast at your desert camp in Wahiba Sands before setting off for another day of exploration.
Begin with a visit to Ibra, one of Oman’s oldest towns, known for its vibrant Wednesday Market. Uniquely dedicated to women, this market comes alive every Wednesday morning, as local women gather to buy and sell a wide range of goods. (Note: While the market is traditionally for Omani women, tourist men and women are welcome to visit.)
Continue with a photo stop at Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back to the third millennium BC, this massive structure is one of the oldest and most impressive forts in Oman. The south façade stretches approximately 112 meters, while the east façade measures around 114 meters, showcasing the fort’s remarkable scale.
Next, visit the magnificent Jabreen Castle, a large rectangular building spread over five floors and containing 55 rooms. Jabreen Castle is renowned for its richly decorated interiors, featuring intricate Islamic-era paintings, ceiling frescoes, and beautifully carved doors. A traditional Falaj irrigation system runs through the heart of the castle, reflecting the ingenuity of Omani architecture.
Overnight stay in Nizwa.
Day 4: Nizwa – Birkat Al Maouz – Jabal Akhdar – Overnight At Nizwa (Approx 300km)
After breakfast at your hotel in Nizwa, begin the day with a scenic drive.
Make a photo stop at Birkat Al Maouz, one of the most picturesque and historically rich ruined villages in Oman. Nestled amid a large banana plantation and surrounded by dramatic scenery, the site also features a traditional Falaj irrigation system, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A stroll through the village will transport you back in time, offering a glimpse into Oman’s agricultural and architectural heritage.
Continue your journey to Jabal Al Akhdar, known as “The Green Mountain,” part of the majestic Al Hajar Mountains range in the Ad Dakhiliyah Governorate. Visit the Saiq Plateau, located at an altitude of 2,000 meters above sea level. Thanks to its mild Mediterranean-like climate, the area is famous for its lush wadis and terraced orchards, where pomegranates, apricots, and roses flourish.
After a day of breathtaking views and fresh mountain air, return to Nizwa.
Overnight stay in Nizwa.
Day 5: Nizwa – Nizwa Visit With Cattle Market (Friday Market) – Jabal Shams – Misfat – Muscat (Approx 300 Km)
After breakfast at your hotel in Nizwa, start the day early with a visit to the traditional Friday Cattle Market. Held only on Fridays, this lively market is a local highlight where livestock and other goods are sold. It’s a unique opportunity to experience Omani culture in its rawest form.
Continue to Nizwa, the former capital of Oman, where the city rises around the impressive Nizwa Fort. This fort blends traditional and modern architectural elements, reflecting the region’s rich history. Explore the Nizwa Souk, a vibrant market that has remained a center of commerce for hundreds of years. Here, you can find a wide array of local goods, including Omani daggers (khanjar), copper and silver jewelry, livestock, fish, vegetables, and artisanal handicrafts.
Next, head towards Jabal Shams, also known as the "Mountain of Sun." Standing at nearly 3,000 meters above sea level, Jabal Shams is the highest mountain in Oman. The breathtaking views from the summit offer a stunning panorama of the Grand Canyon of Oman, a truly unforgettable sight.
Make a photo stop at Misfat Al Abriyeen, a charming village perched on the mountainside. This picturesque settlement features beautiful agricultural terraces, ancient alleys, and traditional mud houses with palm roofs, all built on solid rock foundations. Misfat is also home to the traditional Falaj irrigation system, where water from underground sources flows through channels to support both agriculture and daily life.
Finally, return to Muscat, where you will be dropped off at your hotel or at Muscat International Airport, marking the end of your unforgettable Omani adventure.
